Plastic production is rapidly increasing, with annual rates outpacing global recycling capabilities. Single-use plastics contribute significantly to direct pollution and long-term climate impacts. Approximately 99% of plastics are fossil fuel-derived, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions while benefiting the fossil fuel industry. The production of virgin plastic has expanded greatly, potentially tripling by 2050 and accounting for a significant portion of the remaining carbon budget. While many countries impose regulations on single-use plastics, the trend of increased plastic production continues with little sign of change.
The amount of plastic being churned out annually is far outpacing the global capacity to manage and recycle it, leading to increased plastic pollution and environmental impacts.
Some 99% of plastics are derived from fossil fuels, which serve as a lifeline for the oil and gas industries, contributing to global emissions.
Production of new plastic has expanded rapidly and is projected to increase by two or three-fold by 2050, potentially tripling associated global emissions.
Despite at least 140 nations introducing bans or restrictions on single-use plastics, plastic production is continuing to grow rapidly.
Collection
[
|
...
]